A review published in 2022 in the journal NanoImpact evaluated the latest research related to genotoxic effects of titanium dioxide through in vivo studies and in vitro cell tests. Researchers summarized the results by stating TiO2 nanoparticles “could induce genotoxicity prior to cytotoxicity,” and “are likely to be genotoxic to humans.”

Titanium Dioxide is largely produced by the reduction of titanium tetrachloride, obtained in turn from chlorination of natural rutile, synthetic rutile derived from ilmenite or even slags rich in TiO2 produced by metallurgical treatment of ilmenite. TiO2 is also manufactured by treatment of ilmenite with sulfuric acid. Raw materials and the respective production processes employed in the manufacturing of Titanium Dioxide are listed below.

Characterization of vitamins@P25TiO₂NPs

What's the deal with titanium dioxide?

5. Regulatory compliance The MSDS should also include information on regulatory requirements for the safe handling and use of lithopone, including any permits or certifications that may be necessary.

After oral ingestion, the absorption of titanium dioxide particles is low, however they can accumulate in the body, Maged Younes, chair of the European Food Safety Authority's expert Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings, said in a May 2021 statement.

Titanium dioxide is produced in two main forms. The primary form, comprising over 98 percent of total production, is pigment grade titanium dioxide. The pigmentary form makes use of titanium dioxide’s excellent light-scattering properties in applications that require white opacity and brightness.

Research has shown that, when ingested as a food additive, titanium dioxide and its nanoparticles can impact, alter, and/or damage important protective bacteria in the gut, along with the metabolic pathways of gut bacteria.

Scrap zinc or concentrated zinc ores are dissolved in sulfuric acid, the solution is purified and the two solutions are reacted. A heavy mixed precipitate results that is 28 to 30% zinc sulfide and 72 to 70% barium sulfate.

Is titanium dioxide dangerous? Has it been linked to any health issues?

Characterization of vitamins@P25TiO₂NPs

EFSA Scientific Conclusion on E171

One of the most common worries about titanium dioxide is that it could be a cancer-causing agent. The link between cancer and titanium dioxide traces back to a 1985 study where rats were exposed to high levels of titanium dioxide for two years, causing lung cancer. However, not all experts are convinced by this study.

Titanium dioxide has similar uses in non-food products. It is used in sunscreen as effective protection against UVA/UVB rays from the sun, which creates a physical barrier between the sun’s rays and the skin. It’s also used to whiten paint, paper, plastic, ink, rubber, and cosmetics.